Category Archives: Tips

Electrical Requirements for Portable Air Conditioning

Things to Consider Before Buying a Window Unit

Air Condition Unit Interior View USAWhen central air conditioning is not an option, portable and window air conditioners make keeping cool affordable because of their high energy efficiency and low price.

Window AC units are typically easy to install, and most provide an energy saver switch option that makes them affordable to operate when you only need to cool one room.

Research shows that an average household spends about 13% of its annual utility bills on cooling, which is why it is important to choose the right air conditioning unit. A too-large unit will cool so quickly that it doesn’t have time to remove enough moisture, leaving you with a cold, clammy space. And one that is too small will struggle to cool a room.

Consider the following before you install any type of air conditioner:

With a few exceptions, most window air conditioners will require their own dedicated circuit so they don’t overload an existing room circuit.

Stand-alone AC units are a good option in homes where window configurations or building regulations prevent the installation of window units They require minimal set-up and have casters for easy portability.

The size of a room will dictate the size of the air conditioner. Match the room’s dimensions in square feet with the AC unit’s BTU cooling capacity power, for example, 20 BTU for each square foot. But don’t buy relying on the BTUs alone. You should also make allowances for the height of your ceiling and the size of your windows and doorways.

Window air conditioners generally blow air in one direction, which can be a problem if the window location is not centered on the wall. Consider one that has fan arms that swivel or one with a powerful thrust that can distribute the air evenly to your room.

Room conditioners with an Energy Efficiency Rating capacity of 8.0 or higher will offer features such as with features such as variable fan speeds, temperature controls by degrees and not just high and low settings, a timer or programmable thermostat, energy saving settings and accessible filters for cleaning and maintenance

Older models of air conditioners are very loud and the noise could disturb light sleepers even when set on low and are distracting to all when set on high. There are excellent air conditioning units that have a quiet operation that the only sound you might hear is the fan running.

Before installing your new AC, check first with professional electricians such as Hufnagel Electric to see if your home electrical system meets the needs of the AC unit’s electrical capacities and requirements, such as voltage, amps, watts, and the correct plug face. Also, check to see if you need to install a 220-volt circuit for your unit.

Home Electrical Systems: 5 Things Every Homeowner Should Know

circuit_breakerThe last thing any homeowner needs to stress about is their home’s electrical system. You rely on a proper working system for your daily life to run smoothly. If you ignore potential issues, a faulty electrical system can be detrimental to your family’s safety. Fires caused by faulty wiring, fuses or circuit breakers happen every year and can be easily prevented.

It’s important to know what you are looking at (and hearing) in your home’s electrical system. For instance, a sparking sound from an outlet is a sign of a faulty system which poses a risk of fire and electrical shock. Flickering lights should not be ignored, as it could be a sign of a faulty electrical panel or an overloaded circuit.

Here are 5 things to consider when you are looking at electrical system components in your home, or a home that you are buying. Remember, always call a licensed professional electrician when dealing with repairs or upgrades to your home’s electrical system. Continue reading

When Do You Need an Electrical Inspection?

Electrical safety inspectionOwning a home is a big achievement, especially today with the rising cost of living. Whether you are new to home ownership, or have been on the property ladder for decades, you will most likely feel a mixture of two key things – love for your home, and a sense of responsibility.

Having an electrical inspection is one of those “responsibility’” things that might not appeal to you at first. But if you look at not only the importance of these checks, but the peace of mind they bring and even the money they can save you in the long term, you will no doubt be welcoming your next inspection with open arms. Continue reading

5 Things to Teach Your Kids About Electrical Safety

children-electrical-safetyDon’t Let Them Learn By Accident

Young children love to explore, and are curious about the things they find, both inside and outside of your home. If you have kids, you most likely have used outlet protectors and told your young children to not touch or try and put anything into a power outlet. As your children get older, giving them more information about how electricity works and its dangers will help to keep them safe — just remember to keep your lessons simple so they don’t lose interest. Here are five important safety tips to share with the kids in your life. Continue reading

How to Prepare for a Power Outage

winter-power-outageWinter Brings Added Risks

Ice storms, subzero temperatures, and wind can cause unexpected power outages during the winter months. Not having electricity in cold weather can be much more than an inconvenience. Worst case scenario? You and your family might need to find another place to stay to keep warm. If you are faced with a short-term outage, there are things you can do to be better prepared and make sure your family is comfortable. Continue reading